ATRONOMY – PLANETARY CIENCE (52) CALCULATOR
Surface Gravity
A precise tool.
What is the Surface Gravity & How does it work?
Surface gravity is the acceleration experienced by an object resting on the surface of a celestial body due to its mass.
It depends directly on the body’s mass and inversely on the square of its radius, meaning larger or denser planets pull harder.
By entering a planet’s mass and radius you can instantly see how strong its grip would feel compared to Earth’s 9.81 m·s⁻².
g = \frac{G M}{R^{2}}
g = surface gravity (m·s⁻²)
Parameters
Result
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate surface gravity?
Use the formula g = GM/R², where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the celestial body, and R is its radius.
What factors affect surface gravity?
Surface gravity depends on the mass and radius of the celestial body. Larger or denser planets have stronger surface gravity.
How does Earth’s surface gravity compare to other planets?
Earth’s surface gravity is approximately 9.81 m/s². Other planets have different values based on their mass and size.
Can I use this calculator for moons or asteroids?
Yes, you can calculate the surface gravity for any celestial body by entering its mass and radius.
What is the significance of surface gravity in astronomy?
Surface gravity helps determine how objects behave on a planet’s surface, such as their weight and motion.
How does surface gravity relate to escape velocity?
Surface gravity affects escape velocity; higher gravity means more energy is needed to escape the celestial body.
Can I use this calculator for exoplanets?
Yes, if you have data on an exoplanet’s mass and radius, you can calculate its surface gravity.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.